NADCEL 2026: Nigerian Army Sensitises Kogi Students on Patriotism, Security and Career Opportunities
As part of activities marking NADCEL 2026, the Nigerian Army engaged students in Lokoja on patriotism, national unity, security awareness and career opportunities, reinforcing civil-military relations and youth development.
The Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to strengthen civil-military relations and promote patriotism among young Nigerians with a public speaking engagement for students in Kogi State as part of activities commemorating the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
The programme, organised by the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, was held on Friday at Government Science Secondary School, Lokoja, under the theme: “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”
The event formed part of nationwide activities marking the 163rd anniversary of the Nigerian Army, with a focus on fostering patriotism, educating young people on national values, and exposing them to career opportunities within the military.
Speaking on behalf of the Commander, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Sidi, the Assistant Chief of Staff, Training and Operations, Lieutenant Colonel Solomon Obongha, said the initiative aligns with the vision of the Chief of Army Staff to strengthen the relationship between the military and the civilian population.
According to him, the engagement was designed to bridge the gap between the barracks and society while reinforcing the message that safeguarding the nation’s peace and security is a collective responsibility.
“Our presence here today is aimed at strengthening the bond between the Nigerian Army and the people. Security is everyone’s responsibility, and the Army can only succeed with the support and cooperation of citizens,” he said.
He noted that the theme of this year’s celebration reflects the Nigerian Army’s enduring commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity while serving the interests of the people through professionalism and dedication.
The Brigade Commander, through his representative, urged the students to pay close attention to the presentations, describing the session as an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge about the Army’s core values, ethics, responsibilities and career prospects.
The public lecture featured presentations by military officers, including Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi and Lieutenant Dauda Dibal, who educated the students on various career paths available within the Nigerian Army.
The officers encouraged the students to embrace patriotism, honesty, discipline, integrity and respect for national symbols, stressing that these values are essential for nation-building and responsible citizenship.
They also cautioned the students against social vices such as substance abuse, cultism, tribalism and other behaviours capable of undermining national peace and development.
In his remarks, the Principal of Government Science Secondary School, Lokoja, Mr. Ojapa Ajayi, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army for choosing the school to host the event.
He described the programme as timely and impactful, noting that the interaction had broadened the students’ understanding of the military profession while sensitising them on the dangers associated with cultism and drug abuse.
Some of the participating students, including Covenant Awi and Isiaka Mohammed, also commended the initiative, saying it provided them with greater insight into the operations of the Nigerian Army and the numerous career opportunities available within the service.
The students further appreciated the sacrifices of military personnel in safeguarding lives and property across the country and appealed to the Army to sustain efforts at tackling insecurity to enable learners pursue their education without fear of abduction or other criminal threats.
The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the school’s principal and educational materials to students by Lieutenant Colonel Solomon Obongha on behalf of the Commander, 12 Brigade, and the Chief of Army Staff.
The engagement reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to building stronger partnerships with communities, promoting national unity, and inspiring the next generation of patriotic Nigerians through continuous public engagement and youth-focused initiatives.